12 Hearty Soup and Stew Recipes for Chilly Evenings

Days are getting shorter and nights are getting cooler. Whether you’re heading out a leaf-peeping hike or staying in for a family movie night, fall is a great time to warm up with hearty soups and stews. Easy to make with common pantry ingredients, these hearty soups and stews are a hit with the whole family. Plus, they make great lunch leftovers the next day. No need to fret over your family’s dinner tonight, the 12 recipes I’ve curated below will give you plenty of options to choose from. 

Ultimate potato soup

If you are looking for a smooth, creamy soup to warm you up, this will hit the spot. This recipe comes together in under an hour, uses common ingredients you probably have on hand, and has options for a meat-free version. Whip up a bowl this evening and warm up your crowd after a busy day. You’ll find instructions and all the info you need at All Recipes. 

Taco soup

The delicious soup will satisfy your craving for tacos and warm you up at the same time. Quick and easy to make, this soup will become one of your go-to family dinners. Loaded with hearty ingredients like ground beef, beans, corn and tomatoes this is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. And best of all, toppings make it completely customizable for each person! Simply set out bowls of whatever taco toppings you like (cheese, avocado, onions, salsa, sour cream, etc.) and let everyone create their own masterpiece. Head to The Pioneer Woman for the recipe and details.

Quick soup with rotisserie chicken

Two Healthy Kitchens knows that nothing cures cold weather sniffles better than chicken noodle soup. Plus, this version is ready in less than 30 minutes because it uses a rotisserie chicken or leftover roast chicken from a Sunday dinner.

Coconut curry soup

The cook behind Pinch of Yum doesn’t always have time to run to the grocery store, so this recipe uses whatever veggies you happen to have on hand. Adjust the heat level to your taste by using more or less curry paste and ginger.

Slow cooker Italian meatball soup

The Chunky Chef takes a lot of the prep work out of this traditional family favorite by using fully cooked frozen meatballs. The ingredients simmer slowly in the slow cooker until you are home from work or school, ready to eat with your favorite pasta.

Thick and hearty minestrone soup

Even if you don’t follow Sally McKenny’s (of Sally’s Baking) advice to serve this soup in a homemade bread bowl with homemade croutons, you’ll still have a winner on your hands. The abundance of fresh veggies, including spinach (don’t tell your kids), makes this a healthy option for families.

Broccoli cheddar potato soup

We have a crush on Foodie Crush’s classic warming fall soup. A few simple ingredients like potatoes and cheddar cheese make this rich soup creamy and comforting. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in broccoli.

Slow cooker beef and white bean stew

When you’re pinched for prep time, create a filling and satisfying dinner in your slow cooker. This stew by Baked By Rachel only takes a few minutes to prep and will fill your kitchen with amazing smells as it cooks in the slow cooker. Save even more time by prepping the ingredients the night before.

Easy goulash

The best thing about I Heart Naptime’s easy goulash? It can be made in one pot in less than 30 minutes. The next best thing? It’s a delicious combination of kitchen staples, like ground beef and elbow noodles, that is warm, comforting and will fill little and big tummies alike.

The best healthy turkey chili

There’s no better fall meal than hearty chili. Pair Ambitious Kitchen’s version with warm cornbread or tortilla chips tonight, and use leftovers to top a baked potato for lunch tomorrow.

Instant Pot butternut squash soup

With tart Granny Smith apples, fresh sage and butternut squash, Gimme Some Oven’s Instant Pot soup tastes just like fall. Serve this soup with a side salad or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Easy split pea soup

Momma Chef knows best when it comes to creating a recipe that is not only easy, but the kids will love. If you like, toss in some chopped ham to add a bit of a smoky flavor and to make it a meal. Don’t forget to serve some crusty bread alongside for dipping!

Editor’s note: This article was originally published several years ago, and updated most recently on Sept. 28, 2026, by ParentMap’s editorial team.